It’s another exciting week at the movies with a diverse lineup of films! From spine-tingling horror to heartwarming romance, there’s something for every cinephile’s taste buds. Get ready to immerse yourself in the mysterious depths of “Imaginary,” feel the digital love in “A Glimpse of Forever,” uncover family secrets in “Apo Hapon,” laugh and cheer with “Brave Citizen,” embark on a kung fu adventure with “Kung Fu Panda 4,” and be moved by the timeless tale of “The Color Purple.” With such a diverse array of cinematic delights, the only question is: which one will you watch first?
Now, let’s take a sneak peek at what’s premiering this week:
Prepare to be captivated by this chilling tale, where a seemingly innocent stuffed bear harbors a dark secret. DeWanda Wise delivers a tour-de-force performance as a mother fiercely protecting her family from a sinister entity. If you seek films that linger in your mind long after the credits roll, “Imaginary” promises a truly unforgettable experience.
Explore the possibilities of virtual dating in this captivating science-fiction romance. The film offers a unique perspective on the search for love in the digital age, with Jasmine Curtis-Smith and Diego Loyzaga captivating audiences with their undeniable on-screen chemistry.
Embark on a poignant journey of self-discovery with “Apo Hapon.” This drama delves into the past, following a Japanese vlogger as she uncovers the secrets of her family history in the picturesque Cordillera region. Be prepared to be transported by the film’s stunning visuals and the powerful themes of identity and legacy.
2023 • PG • 1 hr 52 mins ACTION, COMEDY, DRAMA BUY TICKETS
https://youtu.be/xEkEehH69Aw?si=28Pi9G-EM6XKDqFg
Experience the thrill of “Brave Citizen,” an action-comedy that packs a punch (both literally and figuratively). This film follows a former boxing champion turned teacher who takes a stand against injustice, becoming a masked vigilante. Filled with exhilarating fight scenes and moments of humor, “Brave Citizen” promises a rollercoaster ride of emotions.
2024 • PG • 1 hr 34 mins ACTION, ADVENTURE, ANIMATION, COMEDY, FAMILY BUY TICKETS
Po, the beloved panda, returns for another epic adventure! This time, he faces the challenge of finding a worthy successor to his Dragon Warrior title while battling a villain capable of conjuring past enemies. With its signature blend of action, humor, and heartwarming messages, “Kung Fu Panda 4” is the perfect choice for a fun-filled family outing.
Witness the enduring power of the human spirit in this powerful adaptation of Alice Walker’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel. “The Color Purple” tells the story of Celie, a woman who overcomes numerous hardships throughout her life, ultimately finding strength and hope through the unwavering support of her sisters. This emotionally charged film is a testament to the human spirit’s ability to persevere.
FAN FAVORITES STILL SHOWING
Meanwhile, don’t forget to catch up on some of the movies that are still captivating audiences in theaters. Here’s a list of fan favorites that are still showing in cinemas:
That’s a wrap for this week’s new movie releases. So, don’t wait! Secure your tickets, grab your popcorn, and immerse yourself in the excitement of these new releases. As always, we recommend booking your tickets in advance to avoid missing out on these must-see releases. Remember to check ClickTheCity for screening times and make your next movie-going experience unforgettable. Stay tuned for next week’s movie updates, and happy watching!
When it came to picking who would embody the role of his father Bob Marley for the movie Bob Marley: One Love, Ziggy Marley only had this to say about Kingsley Ben-Adir. “He was the best, simple,” Ziggy says. “But it was also about, ‘Who can hold this?’ Because it’s a very heavy burden. When I met Kingsley, I knew this was a man who could. He had the right spirit, energy, ability, respect and commitment.”
Undertaking the role was going to be a feat. “It was not an easy task, capturing the essence of Bob,” Ziggy says, “because Bob is not just a normal, everyday guy,” Ziggy admits. “He was somebody who was unique. We were making a Hollywood movie, but Bob is not a Hollywood person.” In turn, Kingsley Ben-Adir took the blessing of the Marley family very seriously. He was firmly against auditioning for the role if the family wasn’t part of the production. “Because it wouldn’t have felt right,” explains the actor.
Not only did Ben-Adir get the approval of the Marley family, but in preparing for the role, he got to hang out with them numerous times. On one occasion, as would be expected of someone who would play a notable football fan like Bob Marley, Ben-Adir watched a football match with Ziggy — a memory the actor says he will cherish forever.
For the role, Kingsley Ben-Adir would completely transform himself to fit the image of the legendary musician. He learned to play the guitar, and studied how to move and speak like Bob Marley. The greatest challenge was the voice, according to director Reinaldo Marcus Green. “There is patois [the dialect of a specific region; in this case Marley’s hometown of Nine Mile, Jamaica] and then there’s what Bob did,” Green says. “There are the intonations, the nuance of the language, how Bob arranged certain words and sentences. Kingsley spent eight months just listening to Bob Marley, like a record in his head.”
The team enlisted the help of another Jamaican icon to help with the complexities of the Marley patois: Fae E. Ellington. Her first-hand knowledge of the nuances of her country’s culture and the musician would be vital to the film. “My job was to make sure everyone in the movie talked with heart and authenticity,” Ellington says, who worked with Ben-Adir over months to coach the actor about the Marley patois. “Bob is a cultural icon, so we worked assiduously on it. In every language there are nuances, but I’m convinced that the Jamaican language has more nuances than any other. I really believe that. And I am so impressed with Kingsley. In Jamaica, we are very, very critical. But I think people are going to be very pleased when they see and hear him.”
For Bob Marley’s unique movement and posture, Ben-Adir was coached by choreographer and head of movement Polly Bennett. From Rami Malek’s Freddie Mercury (in Bohemian Rhapsody) to Austin Butler’s Elvis (in Baz Luhrmann’s Elvis), to Naomi Ackie’s Whitney Houston (in I Wanna Dance With Somebody), Bennett has been teaching actors how to move like icons. “Everything Kingsley does is coming from an authentic place,” Bennett says of her and Ben-Adir’s process here. “It’s about excavating why Bob Marley moves the way he does, which means we can help the character development that comes from the physical side.”
Along with movement and voice, comes playing the guitar like Marley, and Ben Martinez was tasked on teaching Ben-Adir on how to play the guitar not only just like the musician would, but in his own words, “understand the role that Bob has within the band when he plays.”
As a result, Ben-Adir embodied Bob Marley in a way that captured his essence, without being just a copy. “We searched every corner of the world. What you’re looking for is someone to embody Bob Marley. You can never recreate him. You can’t bring him back. But you can bring his essence back. What Kingsley did was interpret Bob. An actor acting, not mimicking. It was masterful,” director Green says.
Watch the making of a worldwide icon as Bob Marley: One Love opens in Philippine cinemas on March 13.
About Bob Marley: One Love
Bob Marley: One Love celebrates the life and music of an icon who inspired generations through his message of love and unity. On the big screen for the first time, discover Bob’s powerful story of overcoming adversity and the journey behind his revolutionary music. Produced in partnership with the Marley family and starring Kingsley Ben-Adir as the legendary musician and Lashana Lynch as his wife Rita, BOB MARLEY: ONE LOVE is in theatres March 13,, 2024.
Paramount Pictures Presents
A Plan B Entertainment / State Street Pictures / Tuff Gong Pictures Production
Starring: Kingsley Ben-Adir, Lashana Lynch, James Norton, Tosin Cole, Umi Myers, Anthony Welsh, Nia Ashi, Aston Barrett Jr., Anna-Sharé Blake, Gawaine “J-Summa” Campbell, Naomi Cowan, Alexx A-Game, Michael Gandolfini, Quan-Dajai Henriques, David Kerr, Hector Roots Lewis, Abijah “Naki Wailer” Livingston, Nadine Marshall, Sheldon Shepherd, Andrae Simpson, Stefan A.D Wade
In Philippine cinemas starting March 13, Bob Marley: One Love is distributed in the Philippines by Paramount Pictures through Columbia Pictures. Connect with #BobMarleyMovie #OneLoveMovie and tag @paramountpicsph
Photo and Video Credit: “Paramount Pictures International”
The anticipation builds as “Exhuma,” the Korean thriller that shattered box office records upon its release, prepares to thrill Philippine audiences with its premiere on March 20. Featuring a star-studded cast including Choi Min-Sik, Kim Go-Eun, Yoo Hai-Jin, and Lee Do-Hyun, the film introduces a compelling narrative filled with suspense, supernatural elements, and deep emotional undertones. Accompanied by the release of its new trailer, “Exhuma” is poised to offer a cinematic experience unparalleled in its intensity and allure.
A Tale of Darkness and Discovery
In “Exhuma,” viewers are drawn into the eerie story of Hwa Rim (Kim Go-Eun) and Bong Gil (Lee Do-Hyun), two emerging shamans, who join forces with an elite geomancer, Sang Deok (Choi Min-Sik), and a skilled mortician, Yeong Geun (Yoo Hai-Jin). Their mission to locate a cryptic grave in a secluded village unwittingly frees a sinister force, setting off a chain of events that blurs the line between the material and the ethereal realms.
Crafted by a Visionary Director
Helmed by the acclaimed director Jang Jae-Hyun, renowned for his innovative approach in “Svaha: The Sixth Finger” and “The Priests,” “Exhuma” is a masterpiece of storytelling. It skillfully combines elements of horror, drama, and mystery, enhanced by breathtaking visuals and riveting performances by its cast, promising to captivate and thrill audiences from start to finish.
Engage with Us
Join the growing excitement around “Exhuma” by engaging with us online. Use the hashtags #ExhumaMoviePH and #Exhuma to share your thoughts, and don’t forget to check out the new trailer for a sneak peek into the mysterious and thrilling world of “Exhuma.”
Dive into the Supernatural
“Exhuma” extends an invitation to audiences to explore the unseen, to uncover the secrets hidden beneath the grave. With its outstanding ensemble, gripping plot, and the visionary direction of Jang Jae-Hyun, this film stands as a must-see event of the year. Experience the thrill, the suspense, and the supernatural as “Exhuma” debuts in Philippine cinemas on March 20. Distributed by Columbia Pictures, the local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International.
The premise of ‘Baghead,’ the horror film by director Alberto Corredor and written by Christina Pamies, Bryce McGuire, and Lorcan Reilly, is actually quite promising. A young woman, Iris (Freya Allan), inherits a pub in Germany from her estranged father. When she signs the deed, she also ends up inheriting the entity that lives in the basement: the shapeshifting Baghead, who can turn into the dead. As the custodian of this malevolent being, Iris must keep Baghead in the basement but the temptation to speak with the dead – and make money while others communicate with the deceased – puts everything at risk.
It’s a great set-up for a horror film except Corredor and his creative team never take the time to really establish the aspects of the film that would give it its emotional weight. At the start of the film, Iris is seen breaking into her apartment, which she has been evicted from. Taking her things, she considers accepting her friend Katie’s (Ruby Barker) proposal to stay with her but then she receives the call about her father. We quickly learn that she hasn’t spoken to him since he had abandoned her, and she has been living in foster care after her mother passed away. With no attachments except for Katie and no money, she quickly flies off to Berlin and decides to keep the broken-down ruin of a pub. The film makes no effort to really show us Iris’ life before this story takes flight and she meets Baghead. Except for Katie’s offer to let her stay at her place “until she gets back on her feet” and the fact that Katie would drop everything and fly off to Berlin to help Iris out, we don’t actually see the bonds of the two girls for real.
In fact, the pub itself, situated in a dark, seemingly abandoned area of Berlin doesn’t even feel like Berlin at all. Throughout the film, there are several trips made from England to Berlin but it feels like no time has passed. The narrative never even really leaves the confines of the pub so you never actually feel the world of Berlin. It could be a pub in the outskirts of London or maybe in Wales or Scotland and it wouldn’t matter. It changes nothing on the DNA of the story and the script.
It is extra jarring because the way by which Iris and Katie discover Baghead is when a man, Neil (Jeremy Irvine) breaks into the pub and asks Iris to let him see Baghead. When he offers the broke Iris 2000 (they never even say euros or pounds, no denomination) to allow Baghead to let him speak to his wife, she instantly accepts.
This is where ‘Baghead’ manages some emotional heavy lifting. From the basement, Baghead can send visions and spells out of her prison. She tempts Iris with knowledge and information about her father (Peter Mullan) and it allows her to reconsider the reason for why he may have abandoned her. If he was responsible for Baghead then, maybe had no choice? The film explores the complexity of this quite well while the rest of the film flounders with a relatively weak investigation scene (from Katie’s perspective) of Baghead’s origins and a predictable subplot involving Neil.
When the plot starts to put everything together, forcing the characters to collide and Baghead’s machinations to come to fruition, the only relationship that is truly fleshed out is the one of Iris and her father, which has already pretty much resolved somewhere within the second act. The rest feels pretty much formulaic and by the numbers. There are some good moments of tension and fright but because you don’t really feel that invested in the characters, it’s hard for the film to muster up any real sense of fear or dread.
It’s also indicative of a very western approach to these supernatural premises. The lure of money and the fearlessness of such an entity feels so far removed from an Asian perspective. While the younger generation now do not believe in the supernatural, they do have the better sense to stay cautious when presented with it. Iris jumps straight into the fray without question after she realises the economic opportunities Baghead presents. Any Asian character would immediately find an exorcist or try and find a way out as soon as possible with as little interaction with the being as possible.
While floundering as a horror film, ‘Baghead’ presents quite an interesting discussion point about western approaches to the supernatural. It’s why – in my opinion – Asian supernatural horror always feels more grounded and more frightening. It’s because Asians fear and respect the supernatural. We grew up with it. We believe in spirits and ancestors and ghosts, to some degree. We know the dangers that lurk just around the corner when these beings are near. Westerners are sure they can overcome anything as long as they fight hard enough. They feel invincible in their own beliefs of the self. It is why a lot of the third acts of many western horror films – like ‘Baghead’ – don’t always work.
My Rating:
Baghead is now showing. Check screening times and buy tickets here.
“Dune: Part Two” takes the audiences back to the desert as the action-epic directed by Denis Villeneuve takes the story to greater heights. Timothée Chalamet returns as the hero Paul Atreides, the son of a Duke born into a destiny greater than his royal title. Paul is now fully entrenched in the epic adventure that has taken him across the galaxy to the barren and inhospitable Planet Arrakis, where even greater danger awaits at every turn. With his father dead, his mother on a journey of her own and Chani by his side, Paul must earn the respect of the skeptical local population, the Fremen, face his fears and, ultimately, face his most brutal enemies, in order to defend Arrakis and exact revenge upon the people who destroyed his family.
Timothée has received various accolades throughout his career, including nominations for an Academy Award, three Golden Globe Awards, and three BAFTA Film Awards. He rose to fame in his role in Luca Guadagnino‘s Call Me By Your Name, and recently starred in the musical film Wonka.
In the following interview, he talks about his thoughts on returning to the world of Dune, working with Zendaya once more and Paul’s relationship with Chani, and training for his action scenes, including his battle sequence with Austin Butler.
On returning to the world of “Dune” for “Dune: Part Two”… Timothee Chalamet: “It was a dream to return to the world of ‘Dune,’ not only returning to castmates I had a beautiful working experience with the first time, but also getting to see their characters expand, like Chani. And getting to work with new, super-talented actors, like Austin Butler, and Florence Pugh, who I’d done a film with before. And of course getting to see Denis bring his full vision to life.”
On Paul’s journey within the story… TC: “This part of the story, for Paul Atreides, is about a young man not wanting to accept his destiny, or fate, that’s unfolding before him—a duty, a responsibility to lead that feels greater than what he’s capable of, and what he wants to do. It will require so much of him that his immediate preoccupation, his immediate desire to love and be loved by Chani, will be superseded by this responsibility. And because of what happened in the first movie, he’s struggling with what it is to become a man without a father or father figure, without his friends and family, who have been obliterated by the Harkonnen. Also, what it means as an outsider to be chosen, whether by destiny or by people, to lead.”
On Paul’s evolution within the Fremen… TC: “Paul is meant to go down a path that he’s reluctant to. He still has visions, which are not entirely clear to him, but which are destructive; he doesn’t want to go anywhere near them. As he becomes more a part of the Fremen, he becomes the Muad’Dib—a namesake he chooses for the desert mouse that lives on Arrakis. This is actually one of my favorite parts of the book and of the film because often we see the lion or tiger or cheetah as the animalistic metaphor for our leaders, our heroes. And there’s something apt about this small desert mouse that moves in the cracks and is self-sustaining with its moisture— barely—that works for this young man whose circumstance is so beyond him, whose life story is something of a tragedy, having lost his father and his people, but he has to persevere. It’s not Paul the Braveheart or Paul the Lionheart, it’s Paul the Muad’Dib. There’s something that I always found powerful about that.”
On connecting to Paul having to accept his destiny… TC: “Paul is reluctant. He’s not a person who has delusions of grandeur and power. So, I had to think, what would that actually mean, if that was your fate? What would that actually feel like? What would it be like to stand in the middle of a room and declare yourself a leader, and be entirely within your rights doing so? And what would that entail?”
On Paul’s changing relationship with Chani… TC: “Chani is sort of Paul’s moral compass. Her strong ethics add to her great character, and Paul feels that he’s similar to her, that he’s worthy, ethically, and he’s trying to become a partner to her, the man he wants to be to her, and they grow incredibly close. Chani’s so sure of herself, so on her heels. She knows who she is, her heart’s in the right place.”
On working with Zendaya again… TC: “Zendaya is strong, like Chani, in many ways. We only had a couple of days working together on the first film, but we became quite close and good friends after that. But I think the friendship that had grown between the films helped us grow Paul and Chani for this one. It was a wonderful experience to get to work with the actor she’s become—she’s firing on all cylinders! She was a real partner in crime and I’m grateful we had such a great experience.”
On working with Florence Pugh again… TC: “Florence Pugh is amazing in this movie. She brought a steeliness, a fierceness, to this role that is just incredible. It was inspiring to be working with her.”
On training for his fight scene with Austin Butler in the film… TC: “Training started from day one. I started learning the fight choreography in Los Angeles, I think Austin was already in Budapest. So, as soon as I got there, we were working on the fight. He was a dedicated scene partner and fight partner. Not only is he an incredible actor, he’s a super hard worker, he really cares about the work. And that whole sequence was just epic—no other way to put it.”
On the sandworm riding sequence and its significance in the film… TC: “The sandworm sequence—scene 62!—was shot over the course of three months. There was an entire worm unit dedicated to it that our producer Tanya Lapointe, who was also our second unit director, directed, and she was hugely passionate about it. It’s such an important moment in Paul’s entry to the Fremen world, his acceptance by them—other than Chani and Stilgar, of course—and it was so important to get it right. It was incredibly complex. Paul learning how to ride the sandworm is akin to coming of age. It’s a rite of passage and one of the main reason Paul is accepted amongst the Fremen, because someone who wasn’t one with Shai-Hulud, which is the Fremen word for the sandworm, would have died in that predicament, and Paul doesn’t. He rides the worm.”
Distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures, Dune: Part Two is now showing in Philippine cinemas
About “Dune: Part Two”
“Dune: Part Two” will explore the mythic journey of Paul Atreides as he unites with Chani and the Fremen while on a warpath of revenge against the conspirators who destroyed his family. Facing a choice between the love of his life and the fate of the known universe, he endeavors to prevent a terrible future only he can foresee.
Denis Villeneuve directed from a screenplay he co-wrote with Jon Spaihts based on Frank Herbert’s novel. The film is produced by Mary Parent, Cale Boyter, Villeneuve, Tanya Lapointe and Patrick McCormick. The executive producers are Josh Grode, Herbert W. Gains, Jon Spaihts, Thomas Tull, Brian Herbert, Byron Merritt, Kim Herbert, with Kevin J. Anderson serving as creative consultant. Oscar-winning composer Hans Zimmer is again on hand to create the score.
Get ready for an action-packed family holiday with the Forgers at the exclusive advance fan screening of Spy x Family Code: White. Set for Saturday, March 9, at 7 PM, the events are poised to thrill fans at SM Megamall Cinema 4 and SM North EDSA Cinema 3. Attendees will not only be the first in the Philippines to enjoy this highly anticipated anime comedy but will also receive exclusive merchandise to commemorate the occasion.
A Family Vacation Like No Other
Spy x Family Code: White takes audiences on a gripping adventure with the Forgers, a unique family formed under extraordinary circumstances. Loid and Yor, two undercover spies leading double lives, must keep their secrets while raising their adopted daughter Anya. The stakes are high as Loid embarks on Operation Strix, which requires Anya to win a school cooking competition by mastering the principal’s favorite dish. Their journey to the dish’s origin turns their winter holiday into a thrilling escapade that jeopardizes world peace.
Exclusive Merchandise and Fan Delights
Advance fan screening tickets, available for P1,300, include a premium souvenir set featuring:
Special Spy x Family: Code White edition stickers
An exclusive Bond and Anya keychain
A set of 8 auspicious gift packets
A collectible movie poster
A limited edition soft mouse pad
Secure Your Spot
Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of a memorable cinematic experience with the Forgers. For ticket purchases and more information about the advance fan screening event, please visit the official screening links for SM Megamall and SM North EDSA.
Stay updated with the latest news by following Encore Films Ph on Facebook and @encorefilmsph on Instagram. Join us for a night of excitement, laughter, and family bonds at Spy x Family Code: White‘s advance screening.
“Returning to play Po feels like reconnecting with an old friend who’s still as awesome and goofy as ever,” says Jack Black about one of his most beloved characters.
After three fantastic adventures as the legendary Dragon Warrior, destiny calls for Po to take the next step and fill Oogway’s shoes as the Spiritual Leader of the Valley of Peace in Kung Fu Panda 4. “Po’s journey this time around as the Spiritual Leader adds a whole new layer to his personality,” says Black.
“He has a new depth to him, like this whole ‘wise and all-knowing’ thing, but, at the same time, part of him wonders, ‘Can I really do this?” he continues. “Am I wise enough to step into these shoes? Can you be the wisest dude in the room and still crack a joke?’ Po thinks so. And he’s out there trying, and that’s what makes Po so awesome. The most rewarding part is seeing Po evolve emotionally, going from a noodle-slurping warrior to a spiritual leader with a heart as big as his appetite.”
NEW TRAILER! Watch the “Sand & Spice” trailer for Kung Fu Panda 4:
Director Mike Mitchell (Shrek Forever After, Trolls) is also impressed by Black’s emotional depth as Po. “It’s no secret that Jack is one of the funniest actors of all time,” Mitchell says. “But he’s so much more than that. He’s a terrific actor and he really finds the emotional core of each scene. That’s something you wouldn’t expect in an animated family film, but he’s really good at finding that emotional depth.”
Adorable New Friends… and Mighty Villains
As a new villain threatens his world, Po must team up with a Corsac fox thief named Zhen, voiced by Golden Globe winner Awkwafina, to help defeat this villain and restore peace. “Diving into Zhen’s world in Kung Fu Panda 4 was a blast,” Awkwafina says. “The character’s toughness and cleverness immediately caught my attention—there’s a fun mischievousness to her that I found intriguing. And of course, the opportunity to become a part of the Kung Fu Panda universe, a franchise that has not only entertained but profoundly touched the lives of countless fans, was an offer I couldn’t resist.”
A powerful new force is disrupting the tranquility of the Valley of Peace in Kung Fu Panda 4. Voiced by Oscar winner Viola Davis, the Chameleon is a powerful sorceress, a sharp-tongued and surprisingly funny pint-sized lizard who can shape-shift into any creature no matter how big or small (though she often opts for the big ones). “We realized the absence of a powerful female villain to go up against Po in this franchise, so we decided to fill that gap,” director Mitchell says. “The Chameleon’s supernatural powers make her the most epic villain the franchise has ever seen… And then when you add Viola Davis’s voice to it, man, does this character come to life.”
“Working on this film gave me a sense of freedom to just be silly for a few hours, and I had forgotten what it feels like – just to be silly,” Davis says. “They encouraged a sense of play and gave me the license to push the envelope. Being given permission to be free with my silliness, ideas and voice helped me overcome any anxieties that I had going into it. I think the freshness of these films is fueled by the actors’ imagination when they step into the room, and when you have awesome leaders who give you permission to bring new ideas to a well-established franchise, that’s what keeps it feeling vibrant.”
A Happy Place
The Kung Fu Panda films, and Po’s evolution, Black says, have had a profound effect on him. “Kung Fu Panda is like my happy place – Po and the gang are like family,” he says. “It’s the humor, the heart, the whole package that brings me back. My perspective on Po has grown, too. He started as this bumbling panda with dreams of being a kung fu master, and now he’s becoming the Spiritual Leader. And just knowing that Po’s adventures have resonated with audiences worldwide and being part of that legacy… it’s an honor, man.”
There is an incredible bait-and-switch that happens in ‘Dune: Part Two’ that manages to highlight the narrative control that director Denis Villeneuve and his co-screenwriter Jon Spaihts exercises on the material. Based on the book by Frank Herbert, with the same name, Villeneuve is quoted for saying that he reworked the movie to follow Herbert’s original intention to make the lead character Paul Atreides (Timothee Chalamet) an anti-hero. Following directly from the events that transpired in the first film, ‘Dune Part Two’ explores Paul and his mother, Lady Jessica as they are assimilated into the world of the Fremen, the native inhabitants of the world Arrakis while the Harkonnen continue to try and mine the planet for spice, the precious mineral found only in Arrakis.
You cannot watch this movie and not see the critiques against imperialism that is on full display in the narrative structure and the imagery. Everything from the language to the brutality of the ways by which the Fremen people are oppressed point to past historical accounts of colonization by the west. That Villeneuve and his creative team adopt a middle eastern aesthetic for the dessert planet of Arrakis and the Fremen while the Harkonnen’s have a clearly fascist aesthetic is something that does not go unnoticed. Even the casting becomes symbolic of these representations.
The horror of western imperialism is in full display in this movie and it’s wonderful at how bold it is.
And this is where the bait-and-switch works in full effect. Because ‘Dune Part One’ sets up Paul as a saviour, a prophesied messiah who will free Arrakis and the Fremen from outside control. His father and his noble house is destroyed in the first film as the emperor (Christopher Walken) fears the growing popularity of Paul’s father, the Duke Leto Atreides. As Paul becomes more assimilated with the Fremen and his body ingests more of the psychedelic effects of the spice that enhances his already innate abilities, he is becoming more and more like the prophesied liberator of the Fremen. It’s the structure of the hero’s journey at full swing.
But the film – through the perspective of Chani (Zendaya), Paul’s love interest amongst the Fremen – manages to critique this constantly as the story unfolds. Through Chani’s eyes, she constantly reminds her people (and the audience in the cinema) that the prophesy was a story told by the order of the Bene Gesserit to create a faith-based fervor to manipulate the people to accept the coming of an outsider. As Paul tries to shake away the shackles of the prophesy coming to term through him, he struggles to stay true to Chani and his promise to lead the Fremen to sovereignty but there are forces that have been at work for centuries that he is fighting against.
In the almost-three hour running time of the film, Villeneuve and his team gives a hefty serving of life amongst the Fremen. Paul’s assimilation into their culture, even gaining the name Muad’Dib, is the avenue that allows us to see the beauty of the dessert planet and of the Fremen’s ways. Villeneuve, alongside his director of photography Greig Fraser, does an incredible job of capturing the beauty of sand and stone. There’s majesty in the dessert and ‘Dune Part Two’ is filled with this grandiose imagery. It is beautiful in its expanse of barren sand so when he situates Paul and Chani or any of the Fremen in it, the visuals of life thriving and pushing through against that backdrop is so stunning.
And while there’s a lot of time setting up for a magnificent climax as Paul makes a play to finally free the Fremen from imperial control, there’s also a lot of action in-between to keep the pace from meandering. There are incredible battle sequences that makes full use of the environment to portray what the first film had been promising us: the frightening force of the Fremen and “desert power.”
And if that wasn’t enough – though it is – Villeneueve also treats us to the incredible sequence of riding a sand worm, which we saw a glimpse of in the trailer. In the film, the full sequence of riding one is so grand that the audience I was watching with burst out in applause at the spectacle of it. Even I was clapping at the sheer bravado of it.
‘Dune: Part Two’ is an exquisite science fiction epic that needs to be seen in the largest screen possible with the loudest speakers that you can afford. The visual feast alongside the precision of its sound design and musical score promises that ‘Dune Part Two’ is a cinematic event that cannot be missed. To make things even more worth your time, the film explores the real-world horrors of imperialism by seeing things through multiple perspectives – from the emperor (by way of his daughter, played by Florence Pugh), to the oppressed natives by way of Chani, to that of its liberator, Paul, who may or may not be a pawn falling into the manipulations of the Bene Gesserit.
‘Dune: Part One’ gives us the structure of a hero story but as ‘Dune: Part Two’ continues the story, it upends everything and shows us a different side of the story. The complexities of colonization and imperialism is put into full view. And it’s a spectacle just as arresting as Villenueve’s incredible depiction of this epic uprising in the desert planet of Arrakis.
My Rating:
Dune: Part Two is now showing. Check screening times and buy tickets here.
It’s another exciting week at the movies with a diverse lineup of films! Embark on a visually stunning journey with “Dune: Part Two,” to the gripping Korean thriller “12.12: The Day,” and the heartwarming romance “After All” that defies societal norms and celebrates the enduring power of love across time, there’s a cinematic experience waiting to transport you. Brace yourself for the chilling suspense of “Baghead,” or witness the unwavering spirit of female empowerment in “The Buy Bust Queen.” Don’t miss out on these must-see movies hitting theaters near you!
Now, let’s take a sneak peek at what’s premiering this week:
First on our list is “Dune: Part Two,” a saga that continues the epic journey of Paul Atreides. With a blend of adventure and science fiction, this sequel sees Paul (played by the ever-charismatic Timothée Chalamet) navigating the treacherous terrains of politics, love, and destiny. Alongside Zendaya and Rebecca Ferguson, this star-studded cast is set to transport audiences to the mesmerizing deserts of Arrakis. The question remains: can Paul alter the course of the future and save the universe from impending doom?
2024 • PG • 2 hrs 22 mins CRIME, DRAMA, HISTORY, THRILLER, WAR BUY TICKETS
Next up, “12.12: The Day” thrusts us into the heart of political intrigue and military might. In a narrative that’s as gripping as it is thought-provoking, this film captures the tumultuous events following the assassination of President Park. Amidst a backdrop of martial law and coup d’états, it’s a race against time for Capital Defense Commander Lee Tae-shin to restore order. Hwang Jung-min, Jung Woo-sung, and Lee Sung-min deliver powerful performances, making this a must-watch for fans of crime and thriller genres.
For those who believe in the timeless essence of love, “After All” offers a poignant exploration of soulmates and reincarnation. This drama delves into the boundless nature of love, challenging societal norms and embracing the concept of eternal beginnings. Starring Beauty Gonzales and Kelvin Miranda, it’s a heartwarming reminder that true love knows no barriers.
Dare to explore the supernatural with “Baghead,” a horror story that combines elements of mystery and suspense. Freya Allan, Jeremy Irvine, and Ruby Barker star in this tale of inheritance, loss, and the unexplainable. As Iris confronts her family’s dark legacy, she finds herself face-to-face with Baghead, a creature whose abilities are as terrifying as they are intriguing. Prepare to be on the edge of your seat!
2024 • R-16 • 1 hr 28 mins ACTION, DRAMA BUY TICKETS
Lastly, “The Buy Bust Queen” presents a narrative of strength, resilience, and defiance. This action-packed drama showcases the journey of seven women who break barriers in a male-dominated field. Led by Phoebe Walker, Ritz Azul-Guy, and Maxine Medina, the film is a testament to the power of determination and the spirit of unity.
FAN FAVORITES STILL SHOWING
Meanwhile, don’t forget to catch up on some of the movies that are still captivating audiences in theaters. Here’s a list of fan favorites that are still showing in cinemas:
That’s a wrap for this week’s new movie releases. So, don’t wait! Secure your tickets, grab your popcorn, and immerse yourself in the excitement of these new releases. As always, we recommend booking your tickets in advance to avoid missing out on these must-see releases. Remember to check ClickTheCity for screening times and make your next movie-going experience unforgettable. Stay tuned for next week’s movie updates, and happy watching!
The boundary of supernatural horror is pushed to new limits as Ishana Night Shyamalan unveils her much-anticipated directorial debut, “The Watchers.” With an ensemble cast led by Dakota Fanning, Georgina Campbell, and Olwen Fouéré, this film is set to chill the spines of audiences in Philippine cinemas starting June 5, 2024.
A Glimpse Into The Shadows: About “The Watchers”
In an ambitious leap from the novel by A.M. Shine, “The Watchers” transcends mere storytelling to become a visceral experience. The narrative follows Mina, portrayed by Dakota Fanning, a 28-year-old artist ensnared in the uncharted wilderness of western Ireland. Accompanied by strangers seeking refuge, they quickly discover they are not alone. As night falls, the line between the seen and the unseen blurs, inviting viewers into a realm where the watchers lie in wait.
Produced by the iconic M. Night Shyamalan, alongside Ashwin Rajan and Nimitt Mankad, and featuring executive producers Jo Homewood and Stephen Dembitzer, this film marks a significant addition to the genre. With Eli Arenson’s breathtaking cinematography, Ferdia Murphy’s immersive production design, Job ter Burg’s meticulous editing, and Frank Gallacher’s evocative costume design, “The Watchers” promises an unparalleled cinematic journey.
Behind The Veil: The Making of “The Watchers”
Ishana Night Shyamalan, emerging from the shadow of her father, M. Night Shyamalan, crafts a narrative that intertwines suspense and the supernatural. The film boasts a stellar cast, including Oliver Finnegan alongside Fanning, Campbell, and Fouéré, promising performances that anchor the film’s haunting atmosphere. Abel Korzeniowski‘s haunting score further elevates the eerie narrative, crafting an auditory landscape as compelling as the visual.
Distributed in the Philippines by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Discovery company, “The Watchers” is not just a film but an invitation to explore the depths of fear. With its June 5, 2024 premiere, audiences are poised on the brink of discovering what lies beyond the veil of the seen.
Join The Watch: Engage with “The Watchers”
Audiences are encouraged to immerse themselves in the mystery of “The Watchers” by joining the conversation online. Use the hashtags #TheWatchers and #AreYouWatching to share your thoughts and experiences. Are you ready to see what cannot be seen? “The Watchers” awaits.
